Worthy Ministries and Worthy Israel Tours invite YOU to our annual REAL ISRAEL TOUR,
May 18-29, 2026!
Shalom Friends! We are super excited to invite you to join us this Spring (May 18-29, 2026) for our annual REAL ISRAEL Tour! We are calling all FEARLESS, DEVOTED men and women of God to come pray, worship, and SERVE in the Land while also enjoying a life-changing experiential tour! Here is what makes our tours special…
We are Believers in Yeshua (Jesus). We are Israelis. We speak the language. We know the best places to go and how to take great care of you! We put OUR WHOLE HEART into the planning and preparation of our tours, with thoughtful details that will make a difference! We opt out of the typical “tourist-trap sales stops” and replace them with cool stuff you won’t get on other tours, like opportunities to experience the PEOPLE and the CULTURE of this beautiful Land!
Between extreme COVID shutdowns, politics, and war, tourism in Israel has been very sparse. Many families, businesses, farms, soldiers, and others have suffered greatly because of it all. Just our MERE PRESENCE in Israel will be a support, but we will also be doing some tangible serving and giving as well! We will visit the area surrounding Gaza, including the Nova Music Festival Site (among others affected on October 7th). We will be helping Israeli farmers plant or harvest in the south, we will help beautify an area or two with a wonderful ministry up north. We will visit wounded soldiers at a Tel Aviv hospital and share joy, love, and gifts! We will meet Holocaust Survivors and new immigrants at a special reception we are putting together to honor them!
In addition, we will explore amazing historical, biblical, and modern sites. Our faith will be strengthened, and the words we read in the Bible will come alive as we stand in the very places these things happened… (or have yet to happen)! We’ll also relax at a beautiful Dead Sea Spa on the shores of Yam Hamelach, enjoy the delicious cuisine of the Middle East, go on camel rides in the Negev Desert, experience ancient Bedouin hospitality, take part in a baptism at the Jordan River, and worship together into the sunset on a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee! We will enjoy a special Yemenite lunch and cooking lesson at Baht Rivka’s father’s home in Jerusalem. We will go where the locals go and take in the unique sights, smells, and tastes of Jerusalem’s famous Shuk Mahane Yehuda (the open-air food market)! We will gain a better understanding of Israel’s spiritual and political situation from one of the absolute best tour guides in all of Israel, a native Israeli, a strong believer in Yeshua (Jesus), and a close personal friend of ours for many years. This will be a LIFE-ALTERING trip, a mission trip of sorts, as well as a vacation! You can ask anyone from our former Worthy Israel Tour groups. We treat our tours like family, and we truly do become family! Many from past tours are still in touch and have made lifetime friendships! We always pray that God will bring in the people who need to join us, so we are standing in faith for all the finances and provisions for you to be able to make it, God willing! They say a week in Israel is like a YEAR of bible school…. so let’s DO THIS! Come experience the REAL ISRAEL on this powerful, well-balanced tour, with us as your personal hosts! We look forward to hanging out with you!
Love,
George and Baht Rivka Whitten
Worthy Ministries
Lazman Hazeh Music
Monday, May 18 Flight to Tel Aviv
Tuesday, May 19
Arrival at TLV/Dead Sea/Spa
Upon arrival, you will gather your luggage, go through customs and meet at the Aroma Espresso Bar (after going through customs, as you walk through the exit, it will be on your right. We will all go together to our luxurious bus and be off to the Negev Desert and the amazing shores of the Dead Sea (biblically called the Salt Sea, in Hebrew, Yam ha MEH-lach).
We will be staying at the beautiful Herbert Samuel Dead Sea Hotel, right on the beach. The top-notch indoor spa is open until about 7 pm, and we will have free use of the various pools, saunas, and steam rooms for some Rest and Relaxation! We can also go for a night swim in the Dead Sea– it is an amazing experience, weather permitting (it is usually nice and warm in the sea at that time of year)! All types of massages and treatments are available for an additional cost. Dinner with the group will be at 8 PM, and then we will have a time of worship and orientation.
Wednesday, May 20
Ein Gedi / Masada / Kfar Hanokdim / Arad
We will step into the pages of Scripture as we travel to Ein Gedi, a stunning desert oasis where David once hid from King Saul (1 Samuel 24). Wander through its lush trails, waterfalls, and caves—an unforgettable encounter with biblical history.
Next, we ascend to Masada, the dramatic mountaintop fortress and last stand of Jewish rebels during the Great Revolt. As you stand among its ancient ruins, you’ll sense the courage and resilience that echo through its stones.
As the sun sets, we head to K’far Hanokdim, a peaceful desert encampment where you’ll enjoy an authentic camel ride under the evening sky. Our day concludes with a visit to the moving Fountain of Tears exhibit—a unique and powerful artistic expression of faith, suffering, and hope.
Thursday, May 21
Otef Aza
After breakfast, we’ll journey to Otef Aza, (the Jewish towns which border Gaza) where we’ll pause at the site of the Nova Music Festival, now a place of solemn remembrance following the tragic events of October 7. We’ll walk among the memorial display of vehicles, bearing witness to the heartbreaking stories etched into the landscape.
Our day continues with an opportunity to serve with one of the local farmers, joining in efforts to care for those still recovering and rebuilding. It’s a time to stand in solidarity, offer compassion, and reflect on the strength and resilience of the people of Israel.
We’ll conclude this unforgettable day with an evening boat ride across the Sea of Galilee. As the sun sets over the water, Baht Rivka will lead us in a time of worship, creating a serene and spiritually rich atmosphere you’ll never forget.
Finally, we will arrive at the Ron Beach Hotel, resting on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Here, we’ll have time to unwind and reflect beside the very waters where Yeshua walked, taught, and transformed lives.
Friday, May 22 (Shavout — Feast of Weeks)
We begin our day with a meaningful time of volunteer service, beautifying the beaches near Tiberias—a practical way to bless the land and its people.
Afterward, we will proceed to the Jordan River for a special baptismal service. Flowing from the Sea of Galilee down to the Dead Sea, the Jordan holds deep biblical significance as the place where Joshua led Israel across into the Promised Land, and most importantly, where John the Baptist baptized Yeshua (Jesus), marking the beginning of His public ministry. Standing along its banks, you will have the opportunity to either witness or participate in baptism, following in the footsteps of countless believers throughout the centuries. This sacred moment is both a public declaration of faith and a powerful reminder of the cleansing and new life we have in the Messiah. It will be a time of worship, prayer, and joyful celebration together in the very waters that have shaped so much of our spiritual heritage.
Nestled in the heart of the Jordan Valley, Beit Shean stands as one of Israel’s most impressive archaeological treasures. As we walk its ancient streets—once part of the great Decapolis—we’ll explore remarkably preserved Roman ruins, towering columns, a grand theater, and the remains of a thriving biblical city. Beit Shean offers a vivid window into the layers of history that shaped the Land of Israel, from Saul’s final battle on Mount Gilboa to the flourishing Roman era that followed.
We will also visit Magdala, the hometown of Mary Magdalene, perched along the beautiful shores of the Sea of Galilee. Excavations here have uncovered a first-century synagogue—the only one discovered in the region from Jesus’ time—along with ancient marketplaces and ritual baths. Magdala provides a powerful connection to the ministry of Yeshua and the faithful women who followed Him, bringing Scripture to life in a uniquely personal way.
Saturday, May 23
Our journey continues at Capernaum, the ministry base of Yeshua along the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Here we will walk among the ruins of the ancient synagogue where He taught with authority, and see the remains of Peter’s home, where many miracles took place. As we stand in this remarkable setting, the Gospels come alive—reminding us that this humble fishing village was the backdrop for countless healings, teachings, and demonstrations of the Kingdom of God.
We will then visit the serene Mount of Beatitudes, traditionally recognized as the site where Yeshua delivered the Sermon on the Mount. Overlooking the shimmering waters of the Galilee, this peaceful hillside invites reflection on the timeless words of blessing spoken here—words that continue to shape the hearts and lives of believers around the world. Surrounded by beauty and stillness, we pause to take in the heart of Messiah’s teaching and the call to live as citizens of His Kingdom.
We conclude this meaningful day with a special Holocaust survivor outreach concert featuring our own Baht Rivka. This unique evening of music and ministry brings comfort, honor, and encouragement to some of Israel’s most precious and resilient individuals. As we worship together, we participate in a powerful expression of love and restoration—standing with survivors, blessing them through song, and witnessing the healing touch of God in a profound and unforgettable way.
Sunday, May 24 (Pentecost)
Our day begins at Megiddo, one of the most strategically significant cities of the ancient world and the prophetic backdrop of Har Megiddo—Armageddon. As we explore its archaeological layers, we’ll walk through gates and structures built by kings, view the remains of ancient stables attributed to Solomon, and descend into the remarkable water system carved deep within the earth. Standing atop Megiddo’s summit, we overlook the vast Jezreel Valley, a landscape rich with biblical history and future prophetic expectation.
Next, we ascend to Mount Precipice, the traditional site where the people of Nazareth sought to cast Yeshua from the cliff after His declaration in the synagogue (Luke 4). The dramatic overlook provides sweeping views of the Jezreel Valley and Mount Tabor, offering a powerful setting to reflect on the boldness of Messiah’s ministry and the fulfillment of Scripture unfolding in His hometown.
From there, we step back into the first century at Nazareth Village, a beautifully recreated agricultural and village setting that brings the world of Yeshua’s early life to life. As we walk through vineyards, olive presses, workshops, and authentic homes, we will see Scripture woven into daily life just as it would have been in Jesus’ boyhood town. Interactions with costumed villagers and demonstrations of ancient practices help illuminate the cultural and spiritual backdrop of the Gospels.
We conclude our day by traveling to the Mediterranean coast and settling at the Four Seasons Hotel in Netanya, where our hotel overlooks the soft sands and rolling waves of the sea. This is a wonderful place to unwind, enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze, and reflect on the rich biblical experiences of the day before preparing for the adventures ahead.
Monday, May 25
Our day begins at Caesarea, the magnificent port city built by Herod the Great along the Mediterranean coast. Once a center of Roman power and later a significant crossroads for early Christianity, Caesarea offers a breathtaking blend of history and beauty. We will explore its grand theater, the remains of Herod’s palace, the Hippodrome, and the ancient harbor where the Apostle Paul embarked on his journeys. As we walk these storied ruins, we encounter the layers of Scripture, empire, and faith that shaped this remarkable coastal city.
Just north of the ancient port, we will visit the iconic Caesarea Aqueduct, one of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts in Israel. Stretching gracefully along the shoreline, this engineering marvel once carried fresh water to the thriving city of Caesarea. Standing beside its arches, with waves lapping nearby, provides a striking contrast between the achievements of antiquity and the timeless beauty of the Mediterranean coast.
We end our afternoon by returning to the Four Seasons Hotel in Netanya, where you can relax along its beautiful sandy beaches. Whether you choose to stroll the promenade, dip your feet in the warm Mediterranean waters, or simply unwind while watching the sun begin its descent over the sea, Netanya offers the perfect setting to rest and reflect after a day filled with history, Scripture, and the splendor of Israel’s coastline.
Tuesday, May 26
We begin the day traveling to Tel Aviv, Israel’s vibrant coastal city, where we will spend meaningful time visiting a hospital that cares for wounded IDF soldiers. There, we will offer gifts, encouragement, prayer, and heartfelt gratitude for their courageous service to Israel. This visit provides a special opportunity to bless and honor those who faithfully stand in defense of the Land.
Our journey continues at the Israel Museum, where we’ll explore the Model of Ancient Jerusalem, which offers insight into the city’s layout during Yeshua’s time. We’ll also enter the Shrine of the Book to view the Dead Sea Scrolls, including the renowned Isaiah Scroll and other ancient writings found in Qumran.
Next, we’ll head to Talpiot, where we’ll stand above the very area where Yeshua was betrayed—a site that now hosts the United Nations headquarters. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Jerusalem, directly opposite the Mount of Olives.
From there, we’ll visit the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, a historic and symbolic location affirming Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
We conclude our day by settling into the Prima Kings Hotel, ideally located in the heart of Jerusalem and our home for the next four days. From this perfect base—just steps from the Great Synagogue and within easy walking distance of the Old City, Mamilla Mall, and Ben Yehuda Street—you’ll have effortless access to Jerusalem’s spiritual, historical, and cultural treasures. After dinner, those who wish may join George for optional evening walking tours, relaxed strolls that offer a wonderful introduction to the city’s atmosphere and the spiritual heartbeat of the Holy City.
Wednesday, May 27
Jerusalem in Yeshua’s Time
Our journey takes us into the City of David, the original Jerusalem captured by King David over 3,000 years ago. As we explore this ancient ridge overlooking the Kidron Valley, we walk the very ground where biblical history unfolded—where David established his royal capital, prophets proclaimed God’s word, and generations of Israelites lived and worshiped. Excavations here have uncovered royal structures, ancient fortifications, and the remarkable engineering achievements that sustained the city, offering a vivid glimpse into Jerusalem’s earliest days.
From there, we follow the path of ancient pilgrims down to the Pool of Siloam, where waters from the Gihon Spring once flowed into a massive ritual bathing site used by worshipers ascending to the Temple. It was here that Yeshua sent the man born blind to wash, resulting in his miraculous healing (John 9). Standing at this historic pool connects us to the faith, hope, and expectancy of those who came seeking purification before entering God’s presence—an experience that continues to inspire awe to this day.
Our adventure continues with a unique cultural experience as we meet Baht Rivka’s father at his home in the heart of Jerusalem. There, you’ll enjoy a taste of daily life and a delicious Yemenite Israeli lunch made by him. We will also get to walk through the iconic Shuk Mahane Yehuda (the outdoor Jerusalem marketplace) — an amazing experience literally outside his window!
We’ll end the day at the Friends of Zion Museum, where we’ll explore the inspiring stories of Christians who stood with the Jewish people and helped establish modern Israel.
We’ll return to the hotel early enough for you to enjoy Jerusalem at your own pace, making the most of our central location. Whether you choose to stroll through the nearby Old City, explore the shops of Ben Yehuda Street, or relax at a local café — all are just steps away.
Thursday, May 28
Jerusalem Old City
We begin our day at the House of Caiaphas, the high priest, where Yeshua (Jesus) was held and tried before His crucifixion—just outside the Old City walls. It’s a powerful place to reflect on His sacrifice.
From there, we’ll enter the Jewish Quarter of the Old City to explore the ancient Byzantine Cardo, once a bustling Roman marketplace, and the beautifully preserved Herodian Quarter, offering a glimpse into Jerusalem’s first-century elite.
We’ll enjoy lunch in the Jewish Quarter, surrounded by history and modern-day life, before continuing to some of the city’s most sacred sites.
We’ll conclude our day with a meaningful visit to the Western Wall, the holiest accessible site in Judaism, followed by the Southern Steps, where ancient pilgrims once ascended to the Temple—steps that Yeshua Himself would have walked. From there, we’ll continue into the Western Wall Tunnels, an extraordinary underground passageway that reveals the massive hidden foundations of the Second Temple. After emerging from the tunnels, we’ll make our way to the Pool of Bethesda, the site of Yeshua’s healing of the man who had been infirm for thirty-eight years (John 5). Standing in this remarkable place allows us to reflect on the compassion and power of the Messiah displayed within Jerusalem’s ancient walls.
After returning to the hotel, we hope to leave you with time to enjoy Jerusalem at your own pace—whether browsing local shops, taking in nearby sights, savoring a quiet moment in the city, or simply soaking in the vibrant and timeless atmosphere of the Holy City.
Friday, May 29
Our journey in Jerusalem begins on the Mount of Olives, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the Holy City. From there, we’ll walk down the ancient path to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Yeshua (Jesus) prayed and was betrayed—a place that invites deep reflection and prayer.
Next, we visit the serene Garden Tomb, one of the traditional sites believed to be the burial and resurrection place of Yeshua—a powerful moment to pause and remember the hope we have in Him.
We’ll conclude our final day together with a beautiful farewell lunch overlooking Mount Scopus, enjoying panoramic views of Jerusalem as we share reflections from our journey through the Land. It’s a fitting place to pause, give thanks, and celebrate the friendships and memories formed along the way. After lunch, we will make our way to the airport for our evening flights, carrying with us the experiences, insights, and blessings of our time in Israel.
Total Land Package $3,950 Per Person (based on double occupancy)
An additional $1400 if you prefer a room alone. We will do our very best to pair you with a roommate, but bringing someone you already know is best)!
PRICE INCLUDES:
10 Days and 10 Nights in the Land.
Luxury Tour Bus with WiFi.
All Site and Attraction Entrance Fees.
All Taxes and Gratuities.
All Breakfasts and Dinners.
Lunch is on our own (but we always tell people that the hotel meals are HUGE and you can pocket some fruit or bread from the buffet for later, or pack some protein bars and nuts).
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
Airfare:
Everyone will purchase their own tickets and meet at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv by the morning of May 19th.
We highly recommend Tabitha Lovell of Adoption Airfare if you need help booking a ticket. You can call her directly at 678-722-5211.
Passport Application Fees: A valid passport is required for this tour. PLEASE NOTE: A PASSPORT IS CONSIDERED “NOT VALID” IF IT EXPIRES WITHIN SIX MONTHS FROM THE TOUR DEPARTURE DATE! Go check your passports now and be sure, because everything takes longer to process these days.
New Entry Requirement: While you do not need a visa to get into Israel, as of January 1, 2025, Israel has implemented a new entry requirement for tourists from visa-exempt countries, including the United States. Travelers must now obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) before entering the country. The ETA-IL application must be completed online and should be submitted at least 72 hours before departure. Applicants will need to provide personal and passport information, as well as details about their travel plans. The application fee is 25 Israeli Shekels (approximately $7 USD).
Trip Cancellation and Medical Insurances: We STRONGLY ENCOURAGE getting insurance to cover any cancellations, interruptions, property or health incidents (God forbid)! It can be purchased from local travel agents or sometimes even through your credit card company. If none of that applies, we can recommend Travel Insurance through our trusted ministry contact Mr. Brent Avery.
Lunch: Participants should budget about $15 per lunch meal daily (or just bring some snacks with you from home because breakfast and dinner are enormous)!
Soft Drinks: are not provided with dinner but can be purchased in the dining room with cash or charged to your room.
Bottled Water: can be purchased on the bus for about a dollar each or at local vendors.
Personal Expenses: laundry, phone calls, postage, medicines, etc.
We will be purchasing gifts for soldiers, survivors and others we come across as we travel. Would you be willing to bring some small things from the US to add to the baskets we will be handing out? Or maybe you could ask in your circles if anyone would like to contribute monetarily to that end. If so, please let us know. More details to come about what is best to bring!
PAYMENT SCHEDULE AND TYPE:
$300 (nonrefundable) today to hold your spot.
$1825 by March 1, 2025 (plus single room fee if it applies)
$1825 by April 20, 2025.
Or you can pay in full at any time.
Cancellation Policy:
Initial $300: nonrefundable
80 days prior to departure: full refund, less $50 service fee.
60 to 79 days prior to departure: full refund, less $100 service fee.
30 to 59 days prior to departure: full refund, less $200 service fee.
29 days prior to departure: no refund.
You can reserve your place on the tour with a simple deposit. Our group is limited to just 50 travelers, keeping the experience personal and meaningful. Once your deposit is received, we’ll take care of the rest by sending your payment invoices on schedule. We look forward to sharing this unforgettable journey with you!
Please follow these directions very closely and make sure to pay attention to dates and times THOROUGHLY before purchasing tickets:
Your incoming flight must arrive in Tel Aviv by 11 AM on May 19th. Our Bus will leave for the Dead Sea between 12 and 1PM.
Your outgoing flight must depart from Tel Aviv as early as 8 PM on May 29th. Our bus will arrive to Ben Gurion Airport around 5 PM on May 29th.
Note: You can choose to arrive hours (or even days) early. If so, you will have to make your way to meet us at the Aroma Espresso Bar at Terminal 3, on the ground floor of Ben Gurion Airport (along with your luggage and name tags on) by 11AM on May 19th. You can also choose to stay on longer in the Land after the tour is over. Of course, again, in that case, you’ll have to get to the airport on your own. (FYI, we have a guest house in Arad if you’re interested –let us know if you want to stay! Space is limited.
For the BEST prices on airline tickets, book as soon as possible.
We highly recommend Tabitha Lovell of Adoption Airfare if you need help booking a ticket. You can call her directly at 678-722-5211.
If this is all too complicated, we are happy to help! We are looking forward to seeing you and experiencing REAL ISRAEL together!!